europe travel 2024 visa

Welcome to the official ETIAS website

ETIAS is currently not in operation and no applications are collected at this point.

What is ETIAS

The rules of travel to Europe have changed. Starting in mid-2025, some 1.4 billion people from over 60 visa-exempt countries are required to have a travel authorisation to enter most European countries.

Who should apply

Find out which European countries require an ETIAS travel authorisation, who needs to apply and who is exempt.

ETIAS travel authorisation with limited validity

Learn about when to request an ETIAS travel authorisation with limited validity and what implications it has for your travel.

What you need to apply

Find out what travel documents can be used to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation. Learn about what information needs to be included in the application form and how much it costs to apply.

Applying on behalf of others

Learn how to authorise someone to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation on your behalf and what to be careful about.

Your right to appeal

Find out how to appeal against a decision related to your ETIAS travel authorisation or data protection rights.

Report abuse

Be aware of possible abusive and fraudulent practices by commercial intermediaries and learn how to report them.

Find answers to the most common questions about ETIAS including how to apply, how much it costs and how long it will be valid for.

News corner

Find the latest updates and facts about ETIAS.

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New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe postponed until 2025

Visitors who now travel visa-free will need to get approval prior to departure.

Americans eyed upcoming travel to European destinations slightly differently due to news of a requirement that was set to start in 2024 for U.S. passport holders. But now, EU officials have postponed the European Travel Information and Authorisation System ( ETIAS ) launch until spring of 2025.

SchengenVisaInfo.com, a website dedicated to the world's largest visa-free zone where 27 European countries abolished their internal borders known as the Schengen Area, first reported that an EU official confirmed ETIAS won't go live until May 2025, "due to continued delays with the introduction of the related Entry-Exit System (EES), which needs to be operational before ETIAS can be implemented."

An official for the European Union did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.

What to know about ETIAS for US travelers

If you previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS , before visiting.

PHOTO: Tourists with umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun at Colosseo area (Colosseum), during the ongoing heat wave with temperatures reaching 40 degrees, on July 19, 2023, in Rome.

Today, American travelers have visa-free access to 184 global destinations, according to the Henley Passport Index . And while the U.S. passport is currently ranked eighth-most powerful passport to own, that could be set to shift when the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.

The application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application, has a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars. All communication is done by email.

Once you are approved for travel, the authorization entitles visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and travelers must be in possession of a valid ETIAS during their entire stay.

MORE: New warning issued for rebooking air travel after delays, cancellations

According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes, but in case an application takes longer, decisions will be sent within four days or up to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.

The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization "well in advance of your planned journey."

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Confirmation of application submission will be sent on email with a unique number that is needed for future reference.

PHOTO: In this undated file photo, a tourist visa is stamped on a passport.

Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers are to ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.

If an application is refused, the email will include the reasons for the decision along with information about how to appeal.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, according to the EU, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.

MORE: European heat wave breaking records with little relief in sight

The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person's travel document -- such as a U.S. passport -- and both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.

Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization doesn't guarantee automatic right of entry. "Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions" and anyone who does not meet the conditions "will be refused entry," according to the EU.

Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on July 21, 2023.

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Wait, do you need a visa to go to Europe now? The new ETIAS requirements, explained

Emily Olson

St. Mark's basilica in Venice is one place U.S. passport holders may not be able to get to without approval under the new ETIAS requirements Andrea Pattaro/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

St. Mark's basilica in Venice is one place U.S. passport holders may not be able to get to without approval under the new ETIAS requirements

Already thinking about next summer's vacation plans? If Europe is on your short list, there could be one extra step to take before boarding that plane.

Starting in 2024, American passport holders traveling to 30 European countries will need authorization via the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

Though it may sound complicated, the ETIAS and the reasoning behind it are quite similar to existing travel requirements and reflect increasing fear of terrorism in the U.S., Europe and around the world.

Here's what you need to know.

What is ETIAS? Is it a visa?

While some media outlets are taking a cue from the European Union's travel site and calling this a visa, in truth, ETIAS is more like a travel authorization form.

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"It's definitely not a visa," said Dan Hamilton, a senior non-resident fellow for foreign policy at the Brookings Institution. "It's an electronic entry-point, an authorization for countries that are currently visa-free."

Even the European Commission has said as much (and in bold letters) , writing this is "not a visa" but rather an "automated IT system" in a press release on the discussions around it back in 2018.

Whatever you want to call it, the ETIAS form is not what you'd seek if you're trying to work or live in Europe, but rather what you'll need for short-term trips — up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Why is it being implemented?

These new requirements have been years in the making, stemming back to a rise in terrorism fears following 9/11. It's very similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization — or ESTA — program that the U.S. implemented in 2008 .

At the heart of ETIAS is an electronic database system to better track who's coming and going. According to the EU's latest report on terrorism data , EU law enforcement authorities arrested about 388 suspects for terror-related offenses in 2021, more than half of whom were accused of being associated with Jihadist groups based abroad.

The European Commission says ETIAS may have the added impact of cutting down on "irregular migration" (i.e. illegal immigration), but one thing the form is definitely not aimed to do is deter tourism in general.

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Crowded cities, inflated airfare and extreme heat disasters may all be making headlines this summer, but many of these European countries are still depending on tourism revenue to help them bounce back from pandemic slumps, Hamilton said.

And the pandemic is another one of the many reasons this new requirement has been delayed by decades — there was no need for ETIAS when countries closed their borders to all travel amid fears of spreading COVID-19.

"Another part of it is simply the pace of the way this parliament and European commission works," Hamilton explained in an interview with NPR. "They're ending their term and pushing through a lot of these directives because parliamentary elections happen next June."

"And getting 30 countries to agree on anything takes a long time," he added.

When does it take effect?

The European Union's website says the new authorization will start in 2024 but hasn't clarified a specific date. A press spokesperson for the union's travel arm did not respond to NPR's request for information.

And, similarly, a spokesperson for the State Department told NPR that the U.S. government website for international travel (travel.state.gov) would be updated "once the regulation goes into effect," but didn't specify when that would be.

"Frankly, I'd be surprised if this starts on time," Hamilton said. The rollout of ETIAS has already been delayed at least once.

But it couldn't hurt to plan ahead for any 2024 travel just to be safe.

Who needs to apply for ETIAS approval?

Basically, all passport holders from 60 countries who can currently travel to most European destinations without a visa — and that includes American passport holders — will now need to get ETIAS authorization for the same trip. That's about 1.4 billion people, by the European Union's estimation.

There are 30 European countries in total on the impacted destination list , including those in the "Schengen Area" — 27 European countries, many that are part of the European Union, that agreed to ease border restrictions to facilitate the movement of people within Europe.

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Those Schengen countries include top vacation spots like France, Italy and Spain.

The other three countries on the list are Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus, which are all trying to become a part of the Schengen Area soon.

You can check the full list of both impacted passport holders and affected European destinations here.

How can you apply for ETIAS approval (and does it cost money)?

The application isn't open yet, but the European Union says that when it is, all necessary forms can be filled out via a web portal or mobile phone application.

You'll be asked to share personal information such as your date of birth, parents' names and details about your current occupation and previous criminal convictions. You'll also need to share a passport that is not set to expire in less than three months.

Oh, and you'll have to pay a fee of 7 euros (about $8).

When is the right time to apply?

If you want to play it safe, apply well in advance of your trip — no later than a month out.

ETIAS says most applications "are processed within minutes" and decisions are delivered within four days. But that wait could take up to 14 days if you are requested to supply additional information and up to 30 days if you're invited to interview.

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Those denied an application can appeal, but that process could be even lengthier.

The European Union says ETIAS approval will stay valid for three years or until the passport you used in your application expires.

Naturally, you'll also need to follow the ETIAS rules to stay in good standing.

Those with ETIAS approval can stay in the European countries on the list for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. So you can leave and come back, but you can't stay in the confines of the countries on the list for 91 days or more non-stop.

What happens if I don't apply for this and try to travel to Europe?

Your ETIAS approval will be linked to your passport. So without it, airport security (or cruise, bus or train line staff) won't let you board.

In other words, you can kiss that dream vacation goodbye.

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ETIAS Visa Waiver for Americans

Europe's travel authorization for u.s. citizens.

This website does not belong to, nor is it affiliated with, the EU. The official website of the European Union is europa.eu.

US passport holders will soon need ETIAS to travel to Europe. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System will be operational from 2025.

ETIAS is the new travel permit for Americans and other visa-exempt non-EU citizens visiting European destinations such as France , Italy, and Spain.

U.S. nationals can continue to go to Europe visa-free for short stays by applying for ETIAS .

Do Americans need a visa for Europe?

Americans who meet the ETIAS requirements do not need a visa for Europe. This means that US passport holders can travel to Europe without a visa:

For up to 90 days in any 180-day period
For tourism, business, and short-term study

Visa-free American visitors need to apply for ETIAS .

Americans must hold a visa or residence permit to stay longer than 3 months or to work in Europe.

WHAT DO AMERICANS NEED TO VISIT EUROPE?

This is what Americans need to visit Europe for up to 90 days:

Passport valid for 3 months after exiting the Schengen Area
ETIAS from 2025

You can find out how to apply for your ETIAS to travel from the US to Europe below.

If you’re staying for longer than 90 days, check the specific requirements for your European destination.

Do American tourists need medical insurance for Europe?

Medical insurance is not an ETIAS requirement . You do not need to provide proof of health insurance to apply.

However, all American travellers are advised to take out insurance that covers medical emergencies and other travel-related incidents.

US citizens need ETIAS for these European countries

Currently, there are 25 european countries that form part of the schengen area:.

Czech Republic
Netherlands
EU Schengen
Non-EU Schengen States

Non-Schengen EU States

Non-eu member states:.

Liechtenstein
Switzerland

Micro-States de facto part of Schengen Area:

Vatican City

HOW CAN AMERICANS APPLY FOR ETIAS TO VISIT EUROPE?

As an American, you can apply for ETIAS online. Fill out the electronic form, pay the fees, and submit the application.

You’ll be asked to provide the following information on your application form:

Name and surname
Nationality
Date, place, and country of birth
Current address
Contact phone number
Email address
Passport number
Passport issue/expiry date
Criminal records
Travel to conflict areas

Why do Americans need ETIAS to travel to Europe?

Americans need ETIAS because they are visa-exempt non-EU citizens . The ETIAS regulation applies to third-country nationals who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area. Other eligible nationalities include British, Australian , and Japanese.

ETIAS pre-screens travellers before they arrive in Europe . By identifying potential threats, ETIAS improves the security of the Schengen Area.

How will my information be used by ETIAS?

The information provided on an ETIAS application form is checked against security databases. These include 3 systems managed by eu-Lisa :

Schengen Information System (SIS) — database to identify suspected criminals, missing persons and stolen objects.
Visa Information System (VIS) —database to share visa information
Eurodac —database storing fingerprints of asylum seekers and irregular migrants

If there is an alert in the system, European authorities know to review the application manually. A decision can then be made on whether to grant travel authorisation.

Is my ETIAS information kept secure?

Information provided on ETIAS applications can only be accessed by authorised users. In addition, advanced technology is used to protect data and prevent any unauthorised access.

ETIAS data protection is in line with European law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

When do Americans need to apply for ETIAS?

Americans need to apply for ETIAS for any trips to Europe after 2025.

After the first ETIAS has been issued, US citizens need to apply in 3 years' time or when their passport expires (whichever is sooner). ETIAS is valid with the passport used to apply only.

Americans planning to visit several European countries on one trip do not need to apply for different visa waivers. ETIAS is valid across the Schengen Area.

TRAVELLING TO EUROPE FROM THE US WITH ETIAS

It is also important to note that an approved ETIAS for American citizens does not guarantee entry to Europe; it grants the holder permission to travel to Schengen countries.

The final decision for entry will be made by an immigration officer at Schengen border control. You do not need to print your ETIAS—it is linked to the passport—but you must travel with the passport you used to apply.

There are regulations and restrictions on carrying weapons, importing and exporting large quantities of tobacco, alcohol or perfume, and declaring large amounts of currency when travelling from the USA to Europe. Travellers must check the latest immigration rules.

US and Europe VISA WAIVER BILATERAL AGREEMENTS

US citizens may be able to stay in some European countries beyond the 90-day Schengen limit . The United States has bilateral visa-waiver agreements with several countries.

The Schengen Area nations that have bilateral visa-waiver reciprocal agreements with the US are listed below. The maximum stay is also shown.

Belgium (3 months)
Denmark (3 months)
Italy (3 months)
Hungary (90 days)*
Portugal (60 days)*
Spain (90 days)*
France (90 days)
Latvia (90 days in half a year)*
The Netherlands (90 days)*

Schengen-associated country with a bilateral agreement:

Norway (90 days)

*Only ordinary passports are permitted

US passport holders who take advantage of one of these visa waiver bilateral agreements must exit the Schengen Area from that EU nation. On departure, they must fly directly to a third country or transit in a non-Schengen airport.

In addition, travellers must remain in that particular EU Member State. It is not possible to move freely around Europe under the bilateral agreements.

Bilateral agreements between the United States and European Union Member States are subject to change.

EUROPE VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR US CITIZENS

US citizens who do not meet the ETIAS requirements need a visa for Europe. Visa applicants need to make an appointment at the embassy or consulate of their European destinations.

Documentation requirements depend on the type of visa requested but may include:

accommodation bookings
Round trip flight tickets , or tickets to an onward destination
Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the stay in Europe
Travel insurance that covers medical care in the Schengen Area
A recent, passport-sized, photograph

Visa applications should be started several weeks before the intended travel date.

EUROPE VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR US CITIZENS

ETIAS for Americans - Related News

ETIAS Europe: the EU’s version of the US ESTA

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is being implemented by the European Union to improve safety and security within the Schengen Area. ETIAS is a visa waiver programme with…

ETIAS for Americans - FAQ

Which countries do american travellers need etias to visit.

With ETIAS, Americans can visit countries where Schengen visa policy applies . The most popular ETIAS destinations for US passport holders include France, Spain, and Italy.

There are no internal border checks in the Schengen Area—ETIAS is valid across the travel zone.

Do American children need ETIAS for Europe?

Yes , US passport holders of all ages need ETIAS for Europe, this includes children under the age of 18.

Parents or legal guardians can complete the ETIAS application on behalf of their children .

Do US citizens need ETIAS to transit through an airport in the Schengen Area?

You only need ETIAS if you will leave the international transit area of the airport. If you will stay in this area, you do not need to apply for ETIAS.

You must hold a valid travel authorisation to enter any of the countries requiring ETIAS, even if it is just for a short time between flights.

CAN AMERICANS USE AN ETIAS TO WORK IN EUROPE?

ETIAS is not a visa and is not valid to work in Europe.

US passport holders need to apply for a work permit or work visa for the European country they will work in. ETIAS is valid for short business trips, for example, to attend meetings, conferences, and other similar events.

CAN AMERICANS STUDY IN EUROPE WITH AN ETIAS?

Americans can study in Europe for up to 90 days with ETIAS. The visa waiver covers short language courses in European countries, for example.

A student visa is required for all study programmes lasting longer than 90 days.

IS ETIAS FOR US CITIZENS A VISA?

No , ETIAS is not a visa for Europe. ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation, or visa waiver, similar to the ESTA for the United States. US tourists and business travellers do not need a visa to visit the Schengen Area short-term , provided they meet the requirements to travel visa-free. Americans will be able to register for ETIAS from 2025

How do Americans pay the ETIAS fee?

You’ll pay the ETIAS fee online at the end of the online application . All major payment methods are accepted.

The ETIAS system does not keep payment information after the transaction has been completed.

Do American tourists need confirmed travel plans to apply for ETIAS?

Your travel plans do not need to be 100% certain to apply for ETIAS. You do need to indicate which European country you’ll enter first when applying however, once you have your approved ETIAS, you can enter via any of the ETIAS countries.

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New travel system for Europe delayed again, to 2025

A person looks at a flight call board at the Munich International Airport

Americans who are planning to visit Europe in 2024 don’t have to worry about applying to the European Union’s new travel authorization system yet.

For almost a decade now, European Union authorities have been working on a visa-like system called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System . It’s for travelers from “visa-exempt” countries like the U.S., and the U.S. has a similar system.

After several years of delays, ETIAS was expected to go online in 2024, but it has now been pushed back to mid-2025 because its entry/exit database isn’t ready.

The system is not handling applications yet, so American travelers can hold off a bit longer on their paperwork.

Eventually, travelers from visa-exempt countries who want to go to most EU nations, as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, will have to register online. Most people will have to pay an application fee of 7 euros ($7.70). All of those travelers, including small children, will have to apply.

Travelers from Canada, Mexico, Australia and most South American countries will have to apply through ETIAS as well.

The EU says most applications will be processed within minutes, but some will take days or weeks and require additional information, so it advises people to apply well in advance of their trips.

Assuming authorization is granted, it will be good for three years, or until the user’s passport expires, whichever is first. That authorization will allow travelers to enter those European countries as often as they want for short stays, which are typically 90 days in any 180-day period — assuming border security approves.

Marley Jay is a business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Americans Will Need a ‘Visa’ to Visit Europe in 2024—Here's What to Know

By Jessica Poitevien

United States passport holders have long traveled throughout most of the world without having to worry about visa applications: American travelers currently have visa-free access to 184 destinations worldwide, according to this year’s Henley Passport Index , which ranked the U.S. passport as the eighth most powerful in the world . But that’s set to change next year, as the European Union prepares new travel document requirements for American tourists.

The new regulations are called the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). When the system launches in early 2024, it will require all visitors who currently travel to Europe visa-free, such as citizens from the US, Canada , Australia, and New Zealand, to apply for travel authorization and receive approval prior to their departure.

ETIAS is not a visa in the traditional sense; it only requires a quick online application, with approval delivered via email. In order to receive authorization, visitors must fill out an online form providing details about their basic biographical information, travel plans and travel history, as well as other security questions.

Most applicants will be granted travel authorization within an hour, but if further checks are required, the process could take up to 96 hours. The application costs €7 ( about $8) and is required for all travelers regardless of their age. Once approved, this authorization is valid for multiple entries over the course of three years, or until the traveler’s passport expires.

Although many Americans were apprehensive about waiting on another travel document when the program was first announced, as more details about ETIAS become available, many travelers are expressing relief at the simplicity of the process.

“Honestly, the buzz around [ETIAS] on social media made me a little nervous, but after doing some research, that initial shock definitely subsided,” says Alexa Moore , a frequent traveler who visits Europe for both business and leisure at least two to three times per year. “It's still easy for us to travel to Europe. It’s just one more step we have to think about before our trip.”

The authorization will be required for travel to all ETIAS member countries , which fall into one of four categories: full Schengen members like Spain , France, and Italy; European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries like Iceland , Norway, and Switzerland; future Schengen members such as Bulgaria and Cyprus; plus European micro states like Andorra and Monaco .

The goal of ETIAS is to tighten border security, as well as digitally screen and track travelers entering and leaving EU countries. Its purpose and application process are similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program for visitors headed to the US—a fact that has also made many people more understanding of the new requirement.

“I’m bummed about it, but it does seem easy enough,” says Nicki Post, a travel blogger and YouTuber who has spent extensive time in Europe. “It’s only fair since the US makes it more complicated for Europeans and people of other nationalities to enter the US.”

As Europe gets ready to roll out its new ETIAS program, it is important to note that the length of time that Americans can spend in Europe as a tourist is not changing. US passport holders are allowed to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For any stay longer than 90 days, a special visa is required.

At the moment, the exact date when the new travel authorization will become a requirement is still unclear. Moore suspects there will be a bit of chaos when it does launch, but also that ETIAS will ultimately not deter anyone from traveling to Europe .

“Initially, we may see more videos on social media and reports of people forgetting to apply for ETIAS, and possibly not being able to go, but that’s the norm any time we get a new travel requirement in place,” Moore says. “I also think pandemic travel has actually helped people be a little more prepared for the possibility of new systems and requirements being in place like having to submit test results, health information, and other documents in preparation for entry even to a visa-free country.”

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Going to Europe next year? You may have to pay a new entry fee.

Starting in 2024, an $8 etias application will be required for u.s. travelers to enter e.u. countries.

Starting in 2024, some travelers to countries in the European Union will have a new hoop to jump through before they embark on their journey.

Following new travel authorization rules announced by the E.U. under the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), prospective visitors from more than 60 “visa-exempt” countries, including the United States, will have to fill out an online application and pay a small fee before traveling to any of 30 European countries.

“It’ll be a minor hassle, but it’s not unusual for countries to have entry requirements like this one,” said Cameron Hewitt, content and editorial director at Rick Steves’ Europe. “It certainly shouldn’t cause anyone to rethink a trip to Europe. From what we know, ETIAS looks like it’ll simply be a manageable bit of red tape.”

Here’s what travelers need to know:

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights ..

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

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Europe Will Roll Out an Entry Fee and Visa Requirement Next Year — How Much It Will Cost, How to Apply, and More

Everything you need to know about ETIAS.

Mehroz Kapadia/Travel + Leisure

Traveling to Europe is often as easy as simply booking a plane ticket but starting next year, a fee and a visa will be required to visit.

The European Commission will require travelers from dozens of visa-exempt countries — including the United States — to apply to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (or ETIAS). The new fee is expected to go into effect next year for travelers who are 18 to 70 years old.

Here's everything travelers need to know about ETIAS ahead of its implementation.

When will ETIAS go into effect?

The ETIAS fee is expected to go into effect in 2024.

The fee was initially supposed to be operational in 2021 but was first delayed until November 2023 and then delayed again to the start of 2024 .

How much will it cost?

When it goes into effect, travelers will be required to pay €7 ($7.70). The authorization is then valid for three years or until the expiration date of someone's travel document.

Where will it be required?

The ETIAS authorization will be required to enter 30 European countries , including popular vacation spots like France, Germany, Iceland, Spain, Greece, the Netherlands, and more.

Who will be required to pay the fee?

Travelers 18 to 70 years old will be required to pay. Family members of EU citizens are also exempt from paying.

How do you apply?

When it goes into effect, travelers will be able to apply through an official website or app before their trip. Travelers must apply as individuals (since the authorization is linked to each person’s travel document), but people can authorize others to submit an application for them.

Most applications will be processed within minutes. Others may take up to 96 hours. And some may require additional information or documentation or even an interview and may take up to 30 more days.

When the system is operational, the European Commission advises travelers to apply before they book a flight or hotel.

What information will be required for an application?

To apply, travelers will need to provide personal information like their name, address, passport details, and current occupation as well as any travel history to “conflict zones” or if they have any criminal convictions. Travelers will also need to detail their travel plans while in Europe.

Travelers will not be required to provide any information related to their health or vaccination status, or provide any biometric data like fingerprints.

What happens if you are denied?

Travelers may be denied an authorization for several reasons, including if they are “considered to pose a security, illegal immigration or high epidemic risk.” If someone is denied, they will be notified of the reason why.

Travelers who are denied have the right to appeal that decision. Future applications will also not be automatically refused because of a previous denial.

What about visiting the United Kingdom?

The UK is no longer part of the European Union so ETIAS will not apply to traveling there. However, the UK is working to implement its own Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in an effort to fully digitize its borders by 2025. That system , which will cost £10 ($12.83) per applicant, will require all non-visa foreign visitors, including those from the U.S., to apply online in advance of coming.

Does the U.S. have anything similar?

Yes. In the U.S., visitors must also apply for a similar authorization before coming called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (or ESTA), which is available to travelers from countries granted a Visa Waiver Program. Last year, the fee for ESTA increased from $14 to $21.

What You Need to Travel to Europe in 2024

The rules are changing for what Americans need to travel to Europe.

Newsletter sign up Newsletter

A European Union flag flies on a shore with mountains in the background and a plane flying overhead in the sunlight.

The rules are changing around what you need to travel to Europe, including to some of the cheapest countries to visit , with a moving target on a planned update.

Starting in "mid-2025," Americans will need one more document to enter countries in the European Union . To visit, you'll have to apply for approval under the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) . You will apply online, and the authorization, which will be linked to your passport, will account for short-term stays, including up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

This had been planned to be in effect till 2024, but in fall 2023, the European Union updated its page on ETIAS to indicate it won't happen till the middle of 2025, confirming rumors of a delay. European Commission spokesperson for home affairs Anitta Hipper had told Kiplinger in late September, "The Commission remains committed to make ETIAS operational as soon as possible."

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How Europe's ETIAS system will work

To fill in the application , you'll need some basic information. This includes your name, address, passport information, current occupation, as well as information about past travel to conflict zones and criminal convictions. You will also have to share information about your travel plans, as well as answer questions about if you have relatives who are citizens in Europe. The application will not require any health information or biometric data, like fingerprints.

The ETIAS website says that "most" applications are processed in minutes, but it could extend to within four days of an application. Additionally, some requestors may be asked for more information or to do an interview, which would extend the process by up to 14 days, for more documentation, or 30 days, for an interview. So if you're planning travel, remember to apply well before you have to go.

The good news is that once you're approved, the authorization lasts for three years. But if your passport expires within those three years, you'll need to apply again.

Email is important to this process. You apply online, and then receive an email confirming your application. That email "will include your unique ETIAS application number: make sure you keep this number for future reference," the ETIAS website says. You will get another email once your application is processed.

If your application gets rejected, the email will have the reasons for it. You will have the option to appeal a rejection.

What Americans should look out for with ETIAS

A middle-aged couple happily looks at a phone near a body of water.

In addition to adding some hassle, this requirement will make a family vacation slightly more expensive. Applications will cost 7 euros, which right now is close to $8. However, applications for people under 18 or over 70 years old are free. There are also some exemptions for those who have EU citizen family members and "non-EU nationals who have the right to move freely throughout the European Union."

One more thing to look out for: ETIAS warned last spring that many unofficial ETIAS websites have sprung up. ETIAS says these sites have incorrect information and some "already collect travellers’ personal data, which is concerning." Protect your identity by only using the official ETIAS website.

The bottom line on what you need to travel to Europe

This is a big change for Americans since there hasn't been a visa requirement to visit EU countries before. Keep this in mind before your big trip to Greece, Italy, France, or any of the other 30 Euro nations in 2025.

But, Cameron Hewitt, content and editorial director at Rick Steves' Europe, told the Washington Post : "It certainly shouldn’t cause anyone to rethink a trip to Europe. From what we know, ETIAS looks like it’ll simply be a manageable bit of red tape." Then, your biggest concern will be avoiding the crowds on Santorini .

For now, though, the old rules are in place, and you do not need a visa to travel to Europe for trips under 90 days as an American in 2024. But you should check your passport's expiration date, as it needs to be valid for at least six months after arrival in the European Schengen area, and be aware of how long it takes to renew your passport .

U.S. Citizens Will Need to Register and Pay a Fee to Travel to Europe—Here’s When and What to Know

The launch of europe’s new etias travel authorization program has been delayed yet again. here’s what travelers need to know for when it finally goes into effect..

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View of a river winding among colorful, historic, half-timbered buildings in Strasbourg, France

France is among the more than two dozen Schengen countries in Europe that will (eventually) have new entry rules.

Photo by Chan Lee/Unsplash

Europe is the most visited region in the world and has always been a very popular destination for U.S. travelers. After pandemic travel restrictions were dropped across Europe in 2022 and now that U.S. citizens are plotting future journeys to the continent once again, they should be aware that the rules for entry into the European Schengen Zone will soon change.

Initially meant to come into effect on January 1, 2021 and then delayed (again and again) until 2024, the European Travel Information and Authorization System ( ETIAS ) is now slated to launch sometime in 2025 (more on the actual launch date below). At that point, all U.S. citizens who want to travel to the 27 member countries of Europe’s Schengen Zone will need to register with ETIAS or risk being turned away at the border.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new ETIAS process.

Why are the requirements for entering Europe changing?

The European Union decided to implement this new travel authorization program to protect and strengthen its borders amid mounting terror threats in Europe. By requiring visitors to register, the hope is that the EU will be able to identify any possible threats or risks associated with travelers coming into the participating countries before they arrive.

Which European nations will require ETIAS authorization to visit?

The new travel authorization applies to those entering any member country of Europe’s Schengen Zone. Currently, that includes 23 countries that are also members of the European Union, four non-EU countries, plus three European micro-states. That means that you’ll need to register to enter:

Czech Republic
Liechtenstein
Netherlands
Switzerland
Vatican City

While Romania and Bulgaria aren’t currently Schengen countries, they are in the process of joining and will be subject to the same requirements once they do. However, there are still many European nations that aren’t part of the Schengen Zone, mostly in Eastern Europe. That means you’ll be able to travel to Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Georgia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Türkiye, and Ukraine without an ETIAS registration.

Who will need to obtain ETIAS authorization?

American citizens, as well as travelers from 60 other countries, will require an ETIAS visa waiver to travel to any of the Schengen-zone countries for short stays once the ETIAS program goes into effect. The list of ETIAS-eligible countries includes Canada, Mexico, Australia, and many more. All travelers, regardless of their age, will need their own ETIAS approval in order to travel to Europe’s Schengen Zone countries.

How will travelers apply for ETIAS?

Once the ETIAS application is available online, it should only take about 10 minutes to fill out, according to ETIAS.com, the landing page for news and information regarding the new travel authorization process. To apply, you’ll need a valid passport , an email address, and a debit or credit card to pay the nonrefundable 7-euro application fee, which applies to individuals between the ages of 18 and 70. Those under the age of 18 or over 70 still need to have an ETIAS but will not be charged.

How much will it cost to enter Europe?

To obtain an ETIAS registration, there will be a required, nonrefundable application fee of 7 euros (US$7.43, based on conversion rates at time of publication). Only travelers who are younger than 18 years old or older than 70 years old will be exempt from the fee (though the will still need to have ETIAS approval). There are no other fees associated with the program.

How long will the authorization process take?

After you fill out your application online with the personal information on your passport and answer a series of security and health-related questions, your ETIAS application will be processed immediately, and you will receive an email confirming that your ETIAS has been approved within 96 hours.

“A small percentage of applications may take up to four weeks to process if additional documentation is required from the applicant. If your ETIAS has not yet been approved and you do not have any other travel authorization, you will not be able to enter a country within the European Union,” according to the ETIAS website .

Will you have to reapply for each trip to Europe?

No, you will not need to reapply after each trip to Europe. After you apply for the first time, your ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years—or until your passport expires , whichever comes first. Because the ETIAS is valid for short-term stays of up to 90 days for both leisure and business travelers, you’ll be able to re-enter Europe multiple times within that three-year period without renewing it, as long as your stay doesn’t exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. Those who want to study or work in Europe will need to apply for a proper work or study visa.

Does this mean I will need a visa to travel to Europe?

ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization requirement for visa-free visitors , similar to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .

The new entry requirement “is more accurately referred to as a visa-waiver. The ETIAS, like the ESTA, is a travel authorization for travelers not requiring a visa to visit Europe. Under the ETIAS, these visitors will undergo additional security checks prior to being permitted to enter the EU. The ETIAS will be mandatory for citizens of such countries as the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Canada,” states ETIAS.com .

In other words, ETIAS will only pre-screen travelers who do not need a Schengen visa.

“An ETIAS travel authorization does not reintroduce visa-like obligations,” according to a fact sheet provided by the European Commission . “There is no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data is collected and significantly less information is gathered than during a visa application procedure.”

Why was the launch of ETIAS delayed?

Initially meant to come into effect on January 1, 2021, the ETIAS was first delayed until January 1, 2023, and then again (a few more times) until 2024. It is now slated to enter into operation in 2025, due to delays in the anticipated adoption of the ETIAS regulation plus the fact that ETIAS is being developed closely with the Entry/Exit System (EES). The EES was scheduled to launch in May 2023, but it has been pushed back until 2024. The EES is an electronic system that will keep track of visitors as they cross borders, and its installation is a precondition for ETIAS to enter into operation.

When exactly will ETIAS go into effect?

In October 2023, the European Commission presented an updated timeline for the launch of Europe’s new tech-driven Entry/Exit System (EES), which will keep track of visitors as they cross borders, and for Europe’s ETIAS travel authorization program. The new ETIAS travel entry requirement is now scheduled to launch in mid-2025 , following the establishment of Europe’s new tech-driven EES that is slated to go into effect in the fall of 2024, according to the Commission.

Once ETIAS goes into effect in 2025, a transitional period of six months will follow. During that time frame, the countries requiring the travel authorization will have to inform travelers of the new regulations. They will still be allowed to cross borders during that six-month period without the ETIAS. The six-month transitional period will be followed by a grace period, the length of which has not yet been determined. During the grace period, the ETIAS requirement will apply unless it’s a traveler’s first time entering Europe since the end of the transitional period.

This article was originally published in 2019. It was most recently updated on November 2, 2023, to include current information.

Yes, you really will need a 'visa' to visit Europe: What to know about ETIAS

Editor's Note

Come 2025, Americans and Brits will be required to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System and pay a small fee to visit Europe.

Although sometimes referred to as a "visa," this is actually just an online application and preauthorization. It will be much easier to obtain and much less expensive than a traditional travel visa.

ETIAS is set to launch sometime in mid-2025, though the launch date has been pushed back many times (most recently from 2024) and could be bumped again. In fact, the region has talked about instituting the program since 2016.

The new program will require travelers from countries outside the Schengen Area of Europe to fill out an application before arrival and pay a fee of 7 euros (about $8 or 6 British pounds) to enter any European Union or Schengen Area country.

What does this mean for future trips to Europe? Here's everything you need to know about the new ETIAS program.

What is the ETIAS 'visa'?

ETIAS is a visa-waiver program similar to the current Electronic System for Travel Authorization used in the U.S. for European visitors.

The form will act as a preauthorization system to allow travelers from 63 countries outside the Schengen Area , including the United Kingdom and the U.S., to enter the region for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a full visa.

ETIAS will cross-check visitor information with government databases and watchlists before issuing authorization to enter. The information collected will also be used in data tracking for business and tourism purposes.

"We need to know who is crossing our borders," said Jean-Claude Juncker, former European Commission president. "This way, we will know who is traveling to Europe before they even get here."

Is ETIAS a visa?

ETIAS is not a traditional European visa and will only require a seemingly quick online application.

You'll fill out an online form with basic personal information, travel plans and history and answer a few security questions. The authorities promise that most applicants will be approved within an hour. However, if your application is flagged, it could take up to four days.

Which countries will require ETIAS?

Quite a few nations will require ETIAS approval. They include full Schengen members that previously didn't require any authorization for Americans, such as Spain, France and Italy.

Also included are European Free Trade Association nations like Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

Several future Schengen member nations, including Bulgaria and Cyprus, and smaller territories like Andorra and Monaco will also require ETIAS.

Here is the full list of counties that will require ETIAS:

Czech Republic
Liechtenstein
The Netherlands
Switzerland

Do American and UK citizens need to apply for ETIAS?

American citizens (and those from the 62 other non-European Union countries that are not currently required to apply for visas, including the U.K.) will need ETIAS authorization to enter the EU for visits of up to 90 days. This includes transit passengers.

If you have applied separately for a visa to enter Europe, you will not need to complete the ETIAS application.

How much will ETIAS cost?

ETIAS will cost 7 euros (about $8 or 6 British pounds) for a three-year permit that allows "third-country nationals" to enter the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Only visitors between 18 and 70 will need to pay the application fee, but all ages will need ETIAS authorization to enter.

How do you apply for ETIAS?

Before traveling, you must access the ETIAS online application to input passport information, name, date and place of birth, email address, phone number and a credit or debit card to submit the payment fee.

You'll also need to provide your destination and answer a few background and profile questions. The ETIAS website indicates the form should take about 10 minutes to complete.

Travelers will be asked to provide details of health, education and criminal convictions.

Here is what you'll be required to fill out, according to schengenvisainfo.com :

Identifying information, including your first name, last name, last name at birth, date of birth and place of birth
Information regarding your citizenship
Email and phone number
Education and work experience
First EU country you intend to visit
Background and eligibility questions about your medical condition, travel to war countries or places where you were deported or rejected, as well as criminal records
For minors, the legal guardian must apply for ETIAS
For family members of EU citizens from other countries, you must submit proof of relationship, residence card and other background information

How long will the approval process take?

Approval for most applicants should take a matter of minutes. However, a manual review will occur if an item is flagged in the application. The applicant can correct the improper information or appeal a denial decision.

When will ETIAS start being required?

The launch of this long-planned system has been pushed several times over the years, but it sounds like it could finally happen in 2025.

At that point, airlines, cruise ships and other transport systems will be required to check for ETIAS authorization before allowing passenger boarding.

All visitors will be required to complete the application process before traveling. At land borders, visitors should also, in some locations, be able to complete the application at an electronic kiosk.

How long does ETIAS last, and will you need to apply for each Europe trip?

Once approved, your ETIAS will be valid for up to three years and can be used on multiple trips. You won't be required to apply for a new ETIAS each time you travel to Europe unless it's been more than three years since your last visit.

After three years have passed, you will be required to apply for a new ETIAS.

Is there a renewal process?

When your ETIAS is coming up to its expiration date, you should receive an email to the address you registered during your application.

You can apply for a new ETIAS authorization up to 120 days before the expiration of your current ETIAS.

How will your personal data be stored?

The European Commission has attempted to soften privacy fears by insisting that ETIAS is not a visa and includes a far less intrusive application process.

"There is no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data is collected, and significantly less information is gathered than during a visa application procedure," the European Commission said .

Bottom line

Fortunately, Americans and Brits planning to visit Europe don't need to take any immediate action.

However, be prepared to go through one more step and pay one more fee in the travel process as part of the ETIAS implementation sometime in 2025. Stay tuned to TPG for further developments related to this program.

ETIAS launch pushed to 2025

Introduction.

The European Union has recently revised the introduction of the ETIAS. It will now be launched in 2025, which is a push-back from the previously planned 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2024 launches. ETIAS stands for EU Travel Information & Authorisation System. Travellers visiting Europe from 2025 onwards will be required to obtain an approved ETIAS online prior to their departure. With over 37 million visitors to Europe each year, the introduction of ETIAS is expected to have a significant impact on traveller plans from all over the world.

Which travellers are affected?

All visitors who previously travelled visa-free to Europe, such as visitors from the United States , Canada , Australia , New Zealand , and many others , will need an approved ETIAS to enter any ETIAS member country such as France , Germany , Italy , Spain along with other ETIAS member countries .

All travellers, regardless of age, will be required to obtain an ETIAS, and the authorization will be valid for 3 years or until the date of passport expiry.

What's the purpose of ETIAS?

This strict new requirement for a European electronic travel authorization is in response to the increasing terrorist threat within Europe, with the aim of strengthening border controls and checks on all visitors prior to their arrival. The move will see passengers questioned about their travel plans within Europe.

Any traveller who fails to obtain an ETIAS will not be permitted to board a plane or cruise ship to an ETIAS member country.

Airlines and cruise operators will be responsible for checking the validity of each passenger's ETIAS at check-in, and boarding will be denied if a valid ETIAS cannot be produced.

What is the ETIAS application process?

Passengers will be required to complete an online application form that covers a range of biometric, travel and security related questions. The ETIAS application will then be electronically processed within 96 hours, and the authorisation delivered by email.

Passenger data will be checked against a variety of European and International databases including no fly lists, to identify potential terrorist and criminal threats who will then be refused entry via the ETIAS program. It is expected that most applications will be processed within 1 hour if no further checks are required.

Visitors with a valid ETIAS will be able to travel to ETIAS member countries. This group includes the majority of popular European tourist and business destinations such as France, Germany, Spain, Italy and 18 other countries.

Where can I learn more?

To stay up to date and for further information about the ETIAS program including news, launch updates and travel alerts, please visit etias.com

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ETIAS Canada

The european travel authorisation for canadian citizens.

Starting 2025, Canadians will need to register online before travelling to Europe. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new system for visa-exempt non-EU visitors. This includes Canadians.

The European travel authorisation is a new entry requirement for Canadians travelling for tourism, business, and short-term study. It’s quick and easy to apply for ETIAS online.

Get ready for the introduction of the ETIAS for Canadians with etias.ca.

Do Canadians need a visa for Europe?

Canadians do not need a visa to travel to Europe short term. With your Canadian passport, you can travel to Europe visa-free and stay for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or short-term study.

From 2025, Canadians will need to register with ETIAS to enter the Schengen Area , and Cyprus without a visa. Visa-free entry will only be permitted with a valid ETIAS.

European travel visa for long stays for Canadians

Canadians must apply for a visa for Europe to stay more than 3 months . A visa is also required to travel for purposes other than business, tourism, or transit.

To stay long-term, you need to apply for the relevant national visa for your European destination.

Do Canadian residents need a tourist visa for Europe?

European entry requirements for Canadians and other non-EU citizens depend on nationality. Whether a Canadian permanent resident needs a visa for Europe is determined by the country that issued their passport.

Citizens of more than 50 countries can travel to Europe without a visa and will be eligible for ETIAS.

What is ETIAS for Canadians?

ETIAS is a new travel permit for Europe. The ETIAS for Canadian citizens is not a visa . It’s an electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors from outside the EU.

ETIAS secures EU borders by pre-screening travellers before they arrive in Europe. The system helps detect potential security or migration risks presented by visa-exempt visitors.

By registering Canadians and other non-EU passport holders entering European countries , ETIAS also improves European border management.

ETIAS is similar to the Canadian eTA that foreign visitors need to enter visa-free.

How ETIAS for Canadian citizens works

ETIAS for Canadian citizens works by cross-referencing applicants' information with various security databases.

When Canadian passport holders apply for ETIAS , your personal details, travel information, and answers to security questions are checked against databases like the Schengen Information System (SIS), Interpol databases, and Europol data , among others.

This process helps in identifying any potential security, irregular migration, or high epidemic risks.

Most applications are approved following automatic processing. If a potential risk is detected, the application is reviewed manually by the responsible ETIAS National Unit.

ETIAS improves the traveller experience

ETIAS improves the way Canadians travel to Europe . As a tourist, you can enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that other travellers have also undergone ETIAS security checks.

The European travel authorisation for Europe also makes border processes more efficient. Immigration procedures are expected to be faster— security checks are carried out in advance, rather than at the border .

Despite being an additional step Canadians need to take when visiting Europe , ETIAS registration improves the overall traveller experience.

The ETIAS structure

Here’s are some of the groups responsible for the functioning of ETIAS:

ETIAS Central Unit: checks that the data stored in the application file and the personal data recorded in the ETIAS system is correct and up to date. It defines, evaluates, tests and reviews specific indicators of the ETIAS screening rules
ETIAS National Units: responsible for assessing travel authorisation applications referred to them from the automatic process. They can issue an opinion if consulted by other member States’ ETIAS National Units
Europol: will establish and manage the ETIAS watchlist. ETIAS National Units will be able for consultation
EU-LISA: responsible for developing and operating the ETIAS information system
ETIAS Screening Board: this is an advisory team that will be made up of representatives from ETIAS National Units and Europol. The board can be consulted for the definition, evaluation, and revision of risk indicators
European Border and Coast Guard Agency: they ensure the creation and management of an ETIAS Central Unit

European ETIAS destinations for Canadians

As a Canadian citizen, you’ll soon require ETIAS to travel to the following countries:

Key information about the travel permit for Europe

Canadians can continue to enjoy visa-free entry to Europe with ETIAS. Here are the most important facts you need to know about the ETIAS permit to travel to Europe .

* Canadians need the EU ETIAS to transit if they leave the international transit area of the airport.

Travelling from Canada to Europe with ETIAS

Canadians must have an approved and valid ETIAS to travel to countries in the Schengen Area.

When your ETIAS is approved, it’s linked to the Canadian passport you used to apply. You do not need to carry additional documents with you when travelling to Europe — ETIAS is automatically verified during passport checks.

ETIAS does not guarantee entry to European countries . Border checks are carried out and, passengers who do not meet the entry conditions will be denied entry.

It’s important that you apply for ETIAS and travel to Europe using the same passport. If you replace your passport for any reason, you need to apply for a new ETIAS.

Canadians need ETIAS to travel to Europe by air, land, or sea .

Moving around the Schengen Area with ETIAS as a Canadian citizen

You need ETIAS to cross an external Schengen border, for example when travelling from Canada to France.

Once you’ve entered the Schengen zone, you will not face further border checks—there are no internal borders in the travel zone. You should, however, carry your passport with attached ETIAS with you as you travel around.

Visit Spain, Italy, Germany, and other top tourist destinations in Europe with one permit.

Understanding the 90/180 rule for Canadians in Europe

To avoid overstaying in Europe, you need to understand the 90/180 rule.

90-day allowance

You can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This doesn't have to be a continuous stay.

You can enter and leave the Schengen Area as often as you like, but the total number of days spent in the area must not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

Rolling 180-day window

The 180-day period is a rolling window. It’s always counted backwards from the current day.

For example, if you're planning to enter the Schengen Area on December 1st, you'll look back 180 days from December 1st to see how many days you've already been in the Schengen Area during that period.

Count your days

To stay compliant with the rule, keep track of your travel days. Every day you are in the Schengen Area counts towards the 90-day limit, including the day you arrive and the day you depart.

No reset by leaving

You can't reset the 90-day count by leaving the Schengen Area for a short period and then returning. The count of 90 days is cumulative within the 180-day window.

What is the ETIAS watchlist and how will it keep Europe safe?

Can I enter the EU with a criminal record?

What is EES and how does it relate to ETIAS?

Search Smartraveller

Visas and entry requirements in europe and the schengen area.

This page is for Australians travelling to Europe.

Read this page to learn about:

the Schengen Area
entry and exit to the Schengen Area
other European countries with visa waivers
non-Schengen European countries

The Australian Government doesn't issue visas for other countries. We can't provide final information on border rules. Ask your destination's high commission, embassy or consulate for details before you travel.

The Schengen Area

The Schengen Area is made up of 27 European countries with common border rules. It lets travellers move freely between member countries without

going through border controls
getting a visa for each country.

The members of the Schengen Area are:

Czech Republic
Liechtenstein
The Netherlands
Switzerland

Bulgaria and Romania partially joined the Schengen area on 31 March. Border checks should have ceased for air or sea travel between Bulgaria, Romania, and other Schengen Area countries. Checks are still undertaken for land-based travel. Stays in Bulgaria and Romania now count towards your total visa-free stay in the Schengen Area (see below).

Entry and exit in the Schengen Area

Australians can travel visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Your travel must be for:

business purposes
visiting friends and family
tourism and holidays
cultural and sports events
official visit
medical reasons
short-term study

Apply at the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country where you'll stay the longest. If you're staying for the same length of time in each country, apply at the embassy of the country you'll visit first.

You'll need to apply for a visa if:

you're planning to stay for more than 90 days
your reason for travel changes, and you no longer qualify for visa-free travel.

You'll need to apply outside the country you want a visa for.

Calculating your 90/180 days

Calculating your visa-free days can be complicated. The European Commission provides a calculator to help you track your visa-free days .

The 180 days isn't fixed in time. It's calculated backwards from today.
Your 90 days are calculated from your first day in the Schengen Area within the 180 days.
If you leave and return within 180 days, your last stay will count towards the 90-day maximum.
If you use up your visa-free days, you must leave until you accumulate more or apply for a visa.
You may be fined or banned from the Schengen Area if you overstay your 90 days.

Example You arrive in Spain on 18 March. You fly to the UK on 21 April and stay there until the 29th. On 30 April, you travel to Greece and stay until 23 June. Your trip was 97 days, but only 90 were in the Schengen Area. You can't re-enter the Area until at least 14 September, when the Spanish leg of your trip falls outside your 180 days. If you re-enter on 14 September, you can only stay another 35 days as your time in Greece still counts towards your current 90 days. If you re-enter on 22 September, you can stay another 90 days, as you haven't been in the Area in the past 180 days .

Entering and exiting the Schengen Area

You must show a valid passport when entering the Schengen Area.

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave.

Make sure you get a clear entry stamp in your passport when you enter the Schengen Area for the first time. Without a stamp, you could be fined or detained.

Some countries need you to register within 3 days of arrival.

See our destination-specific travel advice for entry and exit details for each country. Check the European Commission for information on temporary border controls .

These visa rules only apply when travelling on your Australian passport . If you're a dual national travelling on your other passport, check the rules for that nationality.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is an electronic security system. It will do a security check before you can enter participating European countries . ETIAS is expected to start in mid-2025 if the new system is working.

You won't need an ETIAS for EU countries who aren't taking part in the program.

Other European countries with visa waivers

There are other European countries where you can travel visa-free. Travel to these countries does not count towards your 90 days for Schengen Area travel.

Countries can change their border rules at short notice. Before you travel, ask your destination's nearest embassy or consulate for the latest rules.

Visa waiver agreements with Australia

Australia has visa waiver agreements with several countries in the Schengen Area. These agreements may allow you to spend 60 to 90 days in the country for tourism.

Visa waiver agreement countries include:

Using visa waiver agreements with Schengen visa-free arrangements is complex. Each country operates the visa waiver in its own way.

Most countries need you to use the visa waiver at the end of your Schengen Area travel.

Visa-free tourism programs in non-Schengen countries

Some European countries outside the Schengen Area allow you to enter visa-free for tourism. Most let you stay up to 90 days. Some are for longer. See our country advisories for details on border rules.

Bosnia & Herzegovina
North Macedonia (Republic of North Macedonia)
United Kingdom

Non-Schengen European countries

Many European countries are not part of the Schengen Area. Non-Schengen countries have their own border rules. These countries include:

Ask these countries' high commission, embassy or consulate for visa information.

General advice on visas .
Before you go, get the right travel insurance .
Read about Australia's 11 reciprocal health care agreements .
The Schengen Area explained

The easiest (and hardest) digital nomad visas to get in Europe

How hard is it to get a digital nomad visa in Europe? We rank them

If you’re reading this, you’re probably interested in the prospect of moving to Europe and working remotely – and we can’t blame you. The continent is full of exciting countries offering digital nomad visas , and many European cities have a relatively low cost of living ( these are the cheapest and most expensive , FYI).

But some visas are harder to secure than others. To help you out, we’ve checked out every European digital nomad visa currently on offer and ranked and evaluated which are the easiest (and the hardest) to get.

To come up with the list, we researched the minimum salary requirements, how the application process works, how much the visa costs and the specific requirements for each destination.

Based on that research, Romania is the easiest European destination to get a digital nomad visa. The monthly salary requirement is three times the national average at €3,700, which is a pretty standard amount for a country to require. However, it ranked well because the application process is easy, quick, and cheap – you can apply to work remotely in Romania online and you’ll get a response within just two weeks.

Croatia comes in second place. It’s easy to apply for a visa – you can do so online or at a consulate – but there are a few small fees to pay along the way, such as paying for the residency card (€40) or the online admin fees (€45). Luckily, the minimum monthly salary requirement is relatively low at €2,539 and there aren’t many requirements involved – although y ou must also have accommodation arranged as part of your application.

Spain comes midway in our ranking, thanks to a relatively straightforward application process and relatively quick turnaround. After your appointment with the Spanish Embassy (you can’t apply online) you can expect a response within 15-45 days. The monthly minimum salary requirement is just €2,140.

Estonia , Hungary , Portugal and Iceland have quite similar processes, so their position in the ranking relates to the minimum salary requirements. Hungary requires just €2,000 per month, but has an application fee of around €115, plus a fee for extending your visa.

Estonia asks for earnings of at least €3,500 per month, but there’s a simple €60 application fee. Iceland on the other hand asks for earnings of €7,000 per month, and a fee of around €86. While that salary requirement is simply because of higher living costs in Iceland, it does make their nomad visa less accessible.

Coming in last place as the hardest country to get a digital nomad visa is Cyprus . The salary requirement is a pretty standard €3,500 per month, but you have to actually go to Cyprus to start the process (which might require you to first get a tourist visa) which is a bit of a hoo-hah. What’s more, you need to provide ‘original blood analysis’ and chest X-rays to prove you don’t have Hep B, C, tuberculosis or HIV – it’s definitely not one for the trypanophobics.

There are some other European countries which plan on introducing similar visas soon, such as Italy , Andorra , Montenegro and Latvia , but those haven’t officially been launched yet, which is why they aren’t included. Germany also doesn’t officially offer a digital nomad visa, but rather something called a ‘Freelancer visa’.

These are Europe’s digital nomad visas, ranked from the easiest to the hardest to get

3. Malta

4. Greece

5. Norway

7. Hungary

9. Portugal

10. Czechia

11. Iceland

More on digital nomadism

It can be hard to stay on top of all the latest info on remote working, which is why we keep our list of all the countries offering digital nomad visas up to date. And if you’re still making up your mind, here’s what it’s like to live and work remotely, from people who’ve taken the plunge .

Did you see that this European country has been named the world’s happiest for under 30s ?

Plus: This airport has been crowned best in the world for the fourth year in a row .

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Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe postponed until 2025

VIDEO: 3 expert travel tips to save money on your summer vacation with friends

An official for the European Union did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.

What to know about ETIAS for US travelers

If you previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS , before visiting.

The application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application, has a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars. All communication is done by email.

MORE: New warning issued for rebooking air travel after delays, cancellations

The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization "well in advance of your planned journey."

Confirmation of application submission will be sent on email with a unique number that is needed for future reference.

Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers are to ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.

If an application is refused, the email will include the reasons for the decision along with information about how to appeal.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, according to the EU, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.

MORE: European heat wave breaking records with little relief in sight

Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on July 21, 2023.

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Why Tourists Heading To Europe In Summer 2024 Need To Expect Way More Crowds Than Usual

T here's no doubt that summer is one of the best times to travel to Europe . In fact, a 2023 survey by Allianz noted that there was a 55% increase in American tourists traveling to Europe compared to the previous year. From London to Paris, Milan, and Rome, more and more cities are beckoning tourists looking for history, culture, food, and entertainment all in one place. And, let's be honest, what better place than Europe to indulge your wanderlust?

However, there's something special about summer 2024 that's bound to kick things up a notch in terms of the number of visitors heading over to the Old Continent: Taylor Swift is making her way there, too. Kicking off the European leg of her larger-than-life Eras Tour in Paris on May 9 and ending in London on August 20, the pop star is already forcing travelers to rethink their plans and itineraries — all to avoid the hordes of Swifties who are bound to take over each destination.

Combine that with this year's Summer Olympics also taking place in the French capital from July 26 until August 11 — as well as the UEFA European Football Championship in Germany from June 14 until July 14 — and you're bound to run into a little bit of trouble while trying to find accommodation or navigate the crowds during key dates.

Read more: 12 Most Underrated Travel Destinations Around The World

Planning Your 2024 European Summer Vacation Accordingly

One of the easiest ways to make sure you don't run into any snags while enjoying your trip to Europe is to plan where and when you're going to be there. For starters, if you want to stay away from crowds, you're probably going to want to give Paris a miss during the two-ish weeks the city will be hosting the Olympics. After all, not only is the city expecting an influx of around 15 million visitors, but hotels and accommodations have also been quick to hike their prices. Per Reuters , there are even reports of some actually tripling their fees for a stay on opening night. Ouch!

The same goes for skipping or postponing your visit to Germany — specifically, cities like Munich, Cologne, Berlin, and Hamburg, among others — during the Euros. That is, unless you're up for some rowdy celebrations and booked-up accommodations at the hands of football fans eagerly cheering on their home teams.

Lastly, avoiding the Swiftie-mania takes a little more planning — especially considering she'll be hopping around major European cities for about three months. To do so, you'll want to head over to her official website for a breakdown of when and where she's going to be. As a tip, most dates typically fall in or around the weekend, so try and use that to plan if you can't skip out on a destination altogether.

Maximizing Your Summer Adventure

With 2024 set to be an unusually busy year in Europe, you might find yourself a little dubious about whether or not navigating the crowds is worth the hassle. However, "more crowds" don't necessarily mean that your trip — especially one that's already booked — has to be any less enjoyable. Instead, this gives you a much greater opportunity to dive headfirst into a less traditional and more adventurous and intimate approach.

For starters, while Europe's most popular cities might be swarming with football fans, music lovers, and sports enthusiasts, there's always the option of veering off the beaten path to explore some of the continent's less-explored destinations for people who hate crowds . Whether that means exploring the lavender fields of Provence (France), savoring rich wines in Porto (Portugal), or catching some rays on the beach in Himara (Albania) — there's plenty more to do outside of the usual tourist hotspots.

And if you're still keen on your visit to places like Paris, Berlin, or Lisbon, there are plenty of tips that might help you skip the crowds at each city's most popular spot . For one, there's the option of hitting up the more popular tourist attractions either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In fact, some museums and landmarks are even open way into the night — like the Eiffel Tower, for example, which stays open until 11:45 p.m. throughout the week. This won't necessarily help you save on accommodation, though — so happy hunting!

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1,500 passengers trapped on cruise ship at port because of visa debacle.

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A cruise ship at a port in Spain has been forced to hold all 1,500 passengers on board, after a group from Bolivia failed to obtain the correct visa documents to enter the European border-free Schengen area.

According to reports, cruise ship MSC Armonia remains detained in Barcelona, with authorities scrambling to sort the situation.

The debacle, involving 69 Bolivian passengers, is preventing the ship from continuing its journey until the situation is resolved.

The voyage has traveled from Brazil to cover a route in the Mediterranean Sea, with the 69 Bolivians in question including families and children.

In a statement, MSC Cruises initially thought the visa documentation was correct and appeared to comply with the necessary requirements for travel.

Passengers of the MSC Armonia look on, as the ship is docked in Barcelona's Port, Spain, April 3, 2024

However, upon further inspection, the visas were “not valid” for entry.

“The passengers appeared to have proper documentation upon boarding in Brazil,” the statement read.

“We have been informed by the authorities that the visas are not valid for entry into the Schengen area. As a result, passengers have not been able to disembark in Barcelona, which was their final destination.”

MSC Armonia cruise ship leaves Barcelona's Port, Spain April 4, 2024

One Bolivian passenger, who spoke to local media under anonymity, said she was being treated like “a criminal [in a] prison” despite being assured by a travel agency her visa was correct and valid for travel.

Some family members of the Bolivian travelers on board the cruise ship told Spanish media that the 69 passengers had been victims of a scam.

Relatives of Bolivian passengers who were barred from disembarking MSC Armonia cruise ship amid lack of visas, wait at the entrance to Barcelona's Port, Spain April 4, 2024

According to the claim, as published in Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia, an agency in South America had offered the visas online and charged up to $10,000 per person.

It is understood the ship will remain in port while it works with authorities while the investigation continues.

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Cruise ship leaves Spain at last after Bolivians' visa row

MSC Armonia cruise ship leaves Barcelona's Port

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Reporting by Joan Faus, Corina Pons and Albert Gea; Editing by Andrei Khalip and Nick Macfie

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Thomson Reuters

Joan is a Barcelona-based correspondent reporting on politics, economics and social issues, such as migration and the car industry’s green transition, and also conducting investigative pieces. With over 15 years of experience, Joan previously worked as Washington correspondent for Spain’s leading newspaper EL PAÍS, closely covering the Obama and Trump administrations, electoral campaigns and major news; at Spanish newspapers Ara and Público in Madrid, and at EFE news agency in Buenos Aires and Barcelona. He is a journalism graduate from Barcelona’s Autonomous University, including an exchange program in Amsterdam and New York, and holds a business executive degree from IESE Business School

Corina is a Madrid-based business reporter focusing on coverage of retail, infrastructure and tourism including some of Spain's biggest companies like Inditex and Ferrovial. She was previously a senior correspondent in Venezuela, where she reported the Chavez and later Maduro government's efforts to retain power and the effects on the economy.

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IMAGES

Schengen countries list with a common Schengen visa policy
Schengen Visa in the Passport. this Sample of the Schengen Visa Has
Travel to European Countries in the Schengen Area: visas rules and
U.S. citizens visiting the EU may need visas in the future
Americans Now Need Visas to Visit Europe
Do I Need A Visa To Travel To Europe? European Visa Guide

COMMENTS

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